A New Chapter Unfolds: Kerlapenda Village Joins the Electoral Process

In a historic first, the Naxal-affected Kerlapenda village in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district voted for the first time since India gained independence. The historic occasion took place during the second phase of panchayat polls on February 20, 2025. Villagers were filled with joy and excitement as they cast their democratic vote after decades of seclusion because of Naxal influence. This development is an important step towards incorporating the region in the democratic process and is reflective of the efforts of the government to include the marginalized people in the mainstream. The success of elections in this hitherto unreached area reflects achievement in resisting Naxal influence and broadening democratic participation among all citizens.

 

Source: ABP News, Economic Times